Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) is a series of benign, superficial papules on the neck and facial region, typically found on African Americans and Asians.
The appearance of multiple small, smooth brown or black bumps that are small in diameter typically arise on the face. It is a benign, or non-cancerous condition on the skin. It is asymptomatic, which means other symptoms do not accompany its presence. This is more of a cosmetically undesirable condition that doesn’t obstruct the view or leave patient with physical discomfort, leaving no other reason to remove the papules other than because the patient would like clearer skin, bereft of marks.
Dermatologists characterize severe cases by the appearance of 50 or more spots. The rate of occurrence, the number of bumps and size of bumps increase with age, however, Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra can occur in children as young as seven-years-old. There are more females affected by this condition than there are males. Family history can increase the likelihood for 40-50 percent of those diagnosed; otherwise, the cause of the skin condition is unknown. Those that have African-American heritages with fairer complexions have the lowest frequency of Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra, and although it can occur among Asians, the exact number of incidences is unknown.
Because they are non-life threatening, they require no surgical removal except for cosmetic purposes. If desired, patients can receive superficial treatment to remove spots:
* This patient underwent CO2 laser treatment for the DPNs (dermatosis papulosis nigra). These brown spots are genetic and are often found in patients with a genetic link to the Caribbean islands. This result is only after one session with this our state of the art CO2 laser.
As a fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist, Dr. Rokhsar is an expert in treating Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra for individuals of any skin type.
While there is no definitive cure for DPN, several treatment options are available for those seeking to remove the bumps. Here are some ways to remove DPN:
While DPNs are not harmful, individuals should consult with a dermatologist before attempting to remove the bumps. Dr. Rokhsar can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most appropriate treatment for each individual’s specific condition. It is also recommended to avoid applying makeup, including blush, to the treated area for three to four days after treatment to avoid any complications. The DPN treated areas should be kept moist with some vaseline for a few days for fast healing and kept away from the sun.
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Dr. Cameron Rokhsar, MD, FAAD, FAACS, is the founder and medical director of the New York Cosmetic, Skin, & Laser Surgery Center. Dr. Rokhsar is a graduate of Harvard College and NYU School of Medicine. Dr. Rokhsar is double board certified in dermatology and micrographic dermatologic surgery, being one of the few select dermatologists in the country who is also fellowship trained in laser surgery. A researcher and innovator, Dr. Rokhsar is the creator of the non-surgical nose job and has been instrumental in the research and development of laser systems such as the Fraxel, CO2, Mirady, Vbeam, Themitight, and Ulthera devices. An Associate Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC, Dr. Rokhsar actively teaches the cosmetic dermatology clinic to the resident at Mount Sinai. An expert injector of fillers, and a trainer for many companies, patients fly in from around the world to see Dr. Rokhsar in his Garden City and Manhattan offices in New York.
Dr. Rokhsar was chosen by
magazine as a top dermatologist in its Best Doctors 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 issues.
